Francis Thompson

Francis Thompson (1859–1907) was an English poet whose work is marked by intense religious feeling and rich, elaborate imagery. Born in Preston, Lancashire, he was educated at Ushaw College. After an unsettled period in London, he began writing poetry and prose that drew on his Roman Catholic faith. He became best known for “The Hound of Heaven,” a long poem portraying the soul’s flight from God and God’s persistent pursuit. Thompson also wrote essays and other poems, including “Sister Songs.” His writing was championed by the editors of *Merry England*, which helped bring him to public attention. He died in London in 1907.